Poolside lounge chairs: our best choices

The warm weather is coming, and with it, the anticipation of lazy days spent around the pool. When you think of relaxing beside the pool, you naturally think of lounge chairs, which must be comfortable enough for tanning, sleeping, reading, sipping on a cocktail, etc. In short, you expect them to be versatile, low-maintenance and easy to store.

When you think of it in those terms, you quickly become aware that there are many criteria to examine before setting your heart on a particular model. Especially since the market offers numerous options, each one more appealing than the last. So it’s best if you know what to look for to ensure that you choose the lounge chairs that are right for you and your family, depending on how you intend to use them.

To give you a clearer picture, we’re pleased to present our best choices in lounge chairs specially designed for the pool and to explain the aspects you should consider in order to make a smart purchase.

Lounge chairs: let’s talk about structure and manageability

Forget about those seasonal models that you have to replace every year. Today’s models are resistant, durable and attractive.

It all starts with the material. Most people tend to choose models that are lightweight so they can move them easily, for example, to take full advantage of the changing position of the sun. In this case, aluminum is at the top of the list. Besides being light, it’s also highly resistant and offers considerable flexibility when it comes to the shape of the chairs. As a result, you’ll enjoy pool furniture that’s solid and stylish. What’s more, aluminum won’t rust. In fact, when aluminum oxidizes, the aluminum oxide on the surface creates a barrier that protects the aluminum from corrosion.

Aluminum is a wise choice for outdoor furniture, as it remains lightweight even in the most imposing of designs. It’s available in a variety of tints that can stand out or blend in with your décor, according to your wishes.

Some chairs employ a mixture of materials to increase their resistance and practicality. You should discuss it with specialists, as combinations with polyethylene and aluminum can yield very good results. For superior resistance, opt for chairs made of marine-grade polymer, a high-density polyethylene.

Wood, which is noble and alluring, will be a decorative asset, especially if you want to create an atmosphere that’s rustic and natural. However, for your exterior furniture, opt for exotic woods, such as teak or Ipe, for guaranteed durability with minimal maintenance. One last piece of advice: opt for models with wheels, as wood structures are heavier and thus more difficult to move around.

Maneuverability, comfort and durability: these are the three characteristics you should consider when choosing an outdoor lounge chair. Don’t hesitate to look at the accessories, whether built in or separate. In particular, we’re thinking about armrests, adjustable footrests, a little table where you can put your things, etc. These elements can make a big difference in your comfort, providing an incomparable level of relaxation.

And let’s not forget about features and design!

It’s nearly impossible to talk about lounge chairs without mentioning seatback adjustment. Most lounge chairs offer five different positions to meet your needs, whether you want to read or take a nap, while some are permanently fixed in a semi-recumbent position. So it’s up to you to decide whether you’re more the type to relax or more the type to keep an eye on the people bathing in the pool! When you’re trying out lounge chairs in the store, take the time to try out the seatback adjustment systems. Are they intuitive? Do the notches work correctly? Is it easy or difficult to adjust the inclination? You need to consider all of these questions to ensure optimized relaxation.

Now, let’s move on to the choice of fabric for the seat. In general, there is a tendency to favor light colors, such as white and beige, as they’re more resistant to sunlight, while also brightening up the surroundings.

If your pool is in a shadier area, there’s nothing stopping you from choosing darker colors, which will combine better with that environment. Black, olive, taupe and navy blue are all popular choices. Avoid colors that are too vivid and patterns that are too busy, as they can easily become tiresome with time.

As in the case of the frame, the material used on the seat and cushions should present a perfect blend of refinement and strength. We’ve already mentioned resistance to sunlight; however, the material should also be waterproof and, ideally, antibacterial to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms, which can result from moisture and frequent use. In the store, you’ll find a wide variety of fabrics, each with its distinct advantages and disadvantages. Once again, your habitual poolside activities will help guide you toward the best choice. Some lounge chairs are waterproof, others are more breathable, while others dry quickly, preventing foul odors from becoming trapped in the material. There’s certainly no lack of options! People generally favor vinyl-coated polyester for the sling and acrylic for the cushions.

As a rule, you should give equal importance to the structure and the design. Don’t forget that your lounge chairs will be very visible all summer long. That’s why you should invest in solid furnishings that meet your standards of good taste.

Personalisez advices to choose your lounge chairs and outdoor furniture

Despite the fact that lounge chairs are for relaxation, you should never take your choice lightly! For personalized exterior design advice, you can count on the team at JML Inc. For more than 30 years, they’ve been making a name for themselves, thanks to the quality of their products, their acute sense of style and their incomparable customer service.